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Nye Early Childhood Center says Conscious Discipline program reduced waiting lists and improved classroom regulation
Summary
Nye Early Childhood Center staff described use of ESSER funds to train staff in Conscious Discipline, introduce 'feeling buddies' and daily regulation practices; board members praised results and discussed capacity constraints.
Nye Early Childhood Center showcased a multi‑year shift toward social‑emotional learning driven by Conscious Discipline training paid for with ESSER funds.
Principal Brittany Behenna Griffin told the board the school implemented a feeling‑buddies curriculum and explicit breathing and calming strategies so classrooms have regulation areas where students are coached back into learning. “Using ESSER funds, we invested in comprehensive training for all of our staff and materials to fully implement this approach throughout our school,” Griffin said. Staff reported stronger relationships and greater emotional resilience among students.
Board members praised the program and its staff. Vice President Kate Noble said she found the techniques useful for adults as well as children and noted partnerships with Santa Fe Community College and other community organizations. Board member Efron raised capacity concerns after a prior visit and asked the district to explore ways to expand services for age‑3 and age‑4 children in Nye or through replication at other locations.
The presentation included a student video and examples of classroom practices. No formal action was taken; board members and staff agreed to continue evaluating capacity needs.
